Drill Bits
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Choose the right wall drill bit for concrete, brick, stone, plaster, and tiles. Our drill bit set options cover different diameters, shanks, and materials so you can drill holes cleanly and safely with power drills on a wide range of surfaces.
Wall drill bits and professional drill bit sets for every application
From masonry drill bit designs with a tungsten carbide tip to HSS drill bits for metal and wood drill bit patterns for timber and plasterboard, our range suits most tasks on site. Pick individual bits or complete bit sets to keep the right drill bit ready for various materials.
What are drill bits?
Drill bits are cutting tools inserted in the chuck of a drill to create a hole of a given diameter and length. Most drill bits use a straight shank for standard keyless chucks, while hex shank and SDS Plus styles provide secure fitting for tougher work.
Types of wall drill bits
- Masonry: tungsten carbide or carbide tips for brick, stone, and concrete.
- Metal: high speed steel (HSS) for steel, aluminium, and similar hard materials.
- Wood: brad-point and spade bits for timber, plasterboard, and general drilling wood.
- Multi-purpose: everyday bits for various materials where speed matters.
- Tile and glass: specialised geometry for ceramic tiles, porcelain, and glass to reduce cracking.
- Countersink drill bits: to create a cone shaped recess so screw heads sit flush.
Masonry drill bits for concrete and brick
Use a masonry drill bit with a hammer drill for stone concrete, brick, and block. Choose SDS Plus for heavy work; straight shank for standard drills. When drilling for anchors, the hole is typically the same diameter as the fixing—always check the anchor’s instructions.
Metal drill bits and HSS drill bits
Metal drill bits made from high speed steel (HSS) cut carbon steel, stainless (with care), and other metals. Start with a pilot, use cutting fluid on tough materials, and keep speed appropriate for the material to prolong bit life.
Hex shank drill bits for secure fitting
Hex shank bits grip better in keyless chucks and reduce spin-out under load. They’re ideal when swapping between drilling and driving screws on the same job.
Applications of drill bits
Use masonry bits for concrete and brick, HSS for metal, wood patterns for wood and plasterboard, and specialised tips for tiles and glass. Multi purpose designs cover light tasks across different types of wall, plastic, and thin sheet.
Which drill bit is used for walls?
For solid walls (brick or concrete) choose a masonry drill bit with a carbide tip. For stud walls and plasterboard, use a wood drill or multi purpose bit.
Do I need a special drill bit for plaster walls?
Yes—start without hammer action. On plasterboard, a wood drill bit works best; for solid plaster, use a masonry bit with gentle pressure to avoid cracking, then switch on hammer only if needed.
Can I drill directly into a wall?
You can, but check for services first. Mark the position, select the right drill bit, set depth for the fixing, and keep the drill square to the surface.
How to use drill bits effectively
- Fit the correct shank (straight or hex) securely in the chuck.
- Pilot first for large holes or hard materials; increase to the final diameter.
- Let the bit cut—do not force it. Withdraw to clear chips so it does not clog.
- Use countersink drill bits so screw heads sit flush where required.
How do I drill straight into a wall?
Use a level mark, start slowly to create a shallow guide, then keep steady pressure. For deep holes, clear dust often so the bit stays true.
Drilling large holes safely and accurately
Step up through different diameters or use a core bit for masonry. On metal, a cone shaped step bit works well for sheet without grabbing. Support the work and wear suitable PPE.
Choosing the best drill bits
Professionals use tungsten carbide for masonry, HSS drill patterns for metal, and dedicated wood drill designs for timber and boards. Expensive options can be worth it on tough materials or when accuracy and tool life matter.
What drill bits do professionals use?
On walls: SDS Plus masonry for anchors in concrete; straight shank masonry for standard drills; tile/glass tips for ceramics; and countersinks so fixings sit flush.
Is it worth buying expensive drill bits?
Often yes—better carbide, tighter tolerances, and heat treatment improve accuracy and life, especially on hard substrates like stone and reinforced concrete.
What’s the best drill bit to buy?
The best choice suits the material and task. If you work across various materials, a quality drill bit set covering different diameters and shanks is the most practical option.
Shop the best wall drill bits and sets online
Explore our tools category for individual bits and sets. Check stock and price (ex VAT and inc VAT), then add to basket. Product pages show details on shank type, tip material, and suitability for tiles, plastic, metal, and masonry so you can order with confidence.